Rapid, sensitive and selective detection of pathogenic bacteria is very important for treatment of diseases like foodborne illness, sepsis and bioterrorism. The silica coated iron oxide nanoparticles (SIO) were synthesized using simple, cost-effective method and used for the rapid capture and detection of clinical pathogen. The surface modification of nanoparticles was carried out using 3-aminopropyltriethoxy silane. The scanning electron microscopy image results showed the slightly agglomerated spherical shaped nanoparticles. Transmission electron microscope result showed the polydispersed particles in the size ranges from 5 to 12 nm. The EDAX results confirmed the coating of silica with iron oxide particles. The SAED pattern confirmed the crystalline nature of iron oxide nanoparticles and also indicated the presence of silica. The FTIR spectrum of the nanoparticles confirmed the functional groups of the iron oxide and surface modified fluorescent silica coated iron oxide nanoparticles (SFSIO). This work provides a very effective method for controlling the growth, capture and detection of pathogenic bacteria.